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Letter: Kittens testify to society's shortfall

Dear Editor,

Ten kittens from two separate litters were found taped shut in a cardboard box and left behind a garbage bin on a sweltering July day [Sealed in box, tossed by dumpster, July 8, Langley Advance].

They’d not have lasted another hour, for great lack of necessities of life, including fresh air.

This case is yet another loud cry that society’s collective psyche needs to procure within itself an appreciation for all cats, most notably the homeless.

Being in such seemingly large numbers, there is an accompanying large quantity of suffering – indeed, abused and even tortured cats – due to vicious, mean-spirited people.

When cats are devalued because they’re not readily obedient and are potential predators of cherished small singing birds, it makes it a lot easier to dispose of them in such a cruel manner.

My cynical side cannot help but to deride the inhumane side of collective humanity that may consciously and/or subconsciously feel, “Oh, there’s a lot more from where they came.”

Contrary to popular belief, cats can be very pleasant pets if they receive enough genuine affection. Such includes frequent talks to them (judging from my cat’s behaviour, they can appreciate a good talking to), and especially physical contact.

You pretty much get what you put into them, as with dogs.

They should be collected and spayed or neutered; perhaps their eventual great reduction in number will then translate into proper appreciation, or at least respect as sentient life.

Respective city halls should order that pet cats be confined indoors when not on a torso-brace leash and accompanied by their owners.

Yes, pet cats likely will go through “outdoors withdrawal” and cry by the front door, however, keeping them healthy and safe should make their finite whining worthwhile.

Frank Sterle Jr. via email